Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An imaging protocol manager apparatus comprising: memory to store instructions; and at least one processor to execute the instructions to implement at least: an orchestrator to trigger a pull of a first imaging protocol from a first imaging device to the imaging protocol manager apparatus; a baseliner including at least one processor configured to at least: process the first imaging protocol; evaluate the first imaging protocol in comparison to a second imaging protocol stored in a protocol library at the imaging protocol manager apparatus to identify the first imaging protocol as at least one of a matching protocol, a new protocol, or a deviation with respect to the second imaging protocol, the deviation to be identified when the first imaging protocol is a partial match to the second imaging protocol; when the deviation is identified, determine whether the deviation is to be remediated based on at least one of a rule or a guideline; when the deviation is to be remediated, remediate the deviation by at least one of: a) replacing the first imaging protocol with the second imaging protocol; b) replacing the second imaging protocol with the first imaging protocol; or c) storing the first imaging protocol as a version of the second imaging protocol; when the first imaging protocol is identified as a new protocol, trigger storage of the first imaging protocol in the protocol library; and a protocol application to facilitate storage and retrieval of the first imaging protocol and the second imaging protocol with respect to the protocol library.
This invention relates to an imaging protocol manager system designed to standardize and manage imaging protocols across medical imaging devices. The system addresses inconsistencies and deviations in imaging protocols that can lead to errors, inefficiencies, or non-compliance with clinical standards. The apparatus includes memory and at least one processor to execute instructions for managing imaging protocols. An orchestrator module retrieves a first imaging protocol from a first imaging device and sends it to the imaging protocol manager. A baseliner module processes the retrieved protocol and compares it to a second protocol stored in a protocol library. The comparison identifies whether the first protocol is a match, a new protocol, or a deviation (a partial match). If a deviation is detected, the system determines whether remediation is needed based on predefined rules or guidelines. Remediation options include replacing the first protocol with the second, replacing the second with the first, or storing the first as a version of the second. If the first protocol is identified as new, it is stored in the protocol library. A protocol application module handles the storage and retrieval of protocols within the library, ensuring consistent access and management. The system improves protocol consistency, reduces errors, and enhances compliance in medical imaging workflows.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the deviation is identified based on a checksum comparison between a file for the first imaging protocol and a file for the second imaging protocol.
This invention relates to medical imaging systems that compare files from different imaging protocols to detect deviations. The system identifies inconsistencies between a file generated by a first imaging protocol and a file generated by a second imaging protocol by performing a checksum comparison. The checksum comparison involves calculating a checksum value for each file and comparing the values to determine if they match. If the checksums differ, the system identifies a deviation between the files, indicating potential errors or inconsistencies in the imaging data. This process ensures data integrity and accuracy in medical imaging workflows. The system may also include additional features such as generating alerts or logs when deviations are detected, allowing for timely corrective actions. The checksum comparison method is particularly useful in environments where multiple imaging protocols are used, ensuring that data remains consistent across different systems and protocols. The invention improves reliability in medical imaging by automating the detection of discrepancies that could affect diagnostic accuracy.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the orchestrator is to trigger the pull of the first imaging protocol from the first imaging device to the imaging protocol manager apparatus via a cloud agent, wherein the cloud agent is at least one of integrated with the first imaging device or implemented with a back-office network in communication between the imaging protocol manager apparatus and the first imaging device.
This invention relates to a system for managing imaging protocols in a medical imaging environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently retrieving and updating imaging protocols across multiple imaging devices, such as MRI or CT scanners, to ensure consistent and accurate diagnostic imaging procedures. The system includes an orchestrator that coordinates the retrieval of imaging protocols from imaging devices and stores them in a centralized imaging protocol manager apparatus. The orchestrator triggers the pull of a first imaging protocol from a first imaging device to the imaging protocol manager via a cloud agent. The cloud agent can be either integrated directly into the first imaging device or implemented within a back-office network that facilitates communication between the imaging protocol manager and the first imaging device. This approach ensures seamless protocol retrieval, reducing manual intervention and minimizing errors in protocol management. The system enhances workflow efficiency by automating protocol updates and ensuring that imaging devices operate with the latest protocols, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient care. The cloud agent acts as an intermediary, enabling secure and reliable data transfer between the imaging device and the protocol manager, whether integrated into the device or deployed within the network infrastructure.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first imaging protocol is to be pulled from the first imaging device including technical settings and clinical instructions and stored at the imaging protocol manager apparatus in the same format as the first imaging protocol is found on the first imaging device.
This invention relates to medical imaging systems, specifically a method for managing imaging protocols across multiple imaging devices. The problem addressed is the inconsistency and inefficiency in protocol management, where imaging protocols—including technical settings and clinical instructions—are often stored in different formats across devices, leading to errors and wasted time. The apparatus includes an imaging protocol manager that retrieves a first imaging protocol from a first imaging device, preserving its original format. The protocol includes technical settings (e.g., scan parameters) and clinical instructions (e.g., patient positioning). The manager stores this protocol in its native format, ensuring compatibility and reducing manual re-entry. The system may also synchronize protocols across multiple imaging devices, ensuring uniformity in clinical workflows. This approach improves efficiency by eliminating the need for reformatting or manual data transfer, reducing errors, and standardizing imaging procedures across different devices. The invention is particularly useful in healthcare settings where multiple imaging modalities (e.g., MRI, CT, X-ray) are used, ensuring protocols are consistently applied.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , further including: an orchestration bucket to hold the first imaging protocol in a staging area to be evaluated; and a versioned bucket to store imaging protocols by version.
This invention relates to a system for managing and evaluating imaging protocols in a medical or diagnostic imaging environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently organizing, versioning, and staging imaging protocols to ensure consistency, traceability, and proper evaluation before deployment. The apparatus includes a storage system with two key components: an orchestration bucket and a versioned bucket. The orchestration bucket serves as a staging area where a first imaging protocol is held for evaluation. This allows administrators or technicians to review, test, or modify the protocol before it is finalized and deployed. The versioned bucket stores multiple versions of imaging protocols, enabling version control and historical tracking. Each version is preserved, allowing users to revert to previous configurations if needed or compare changes over time. The system ensures that imaging protocols are properly managed throughout their lifecycle, from initial creation and testing to final deployment and versioning. This approach improves workflow efficiency, reduces errors, and maintains a clear audit trail of protocol changes. The apparatus is particularly useful in environments where imaging protocols must be carefully controlled, such as radiology departments, medical research facilities, or diagnostic centers.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the protocol library is divided into a standard protocol library, a device protocol library, and clinical instructions.
This invention relates to a medical device communication system designed to standardize and streamline data exchange between medical devices and healthcare information systems. The system addresses the challenge of integrating diverse medical devices, each with proprietary communication protocols, into a unified healthcare network. The apparatus includes a protocol library that categorizes communication protocols into three distinct components: a standard protocol library, a device protocol library, and clinical instructions. The standard protocol library contains universally accepted communication protocols, such as HL7 or DICOM, ensuring interoperability across different healthcare systems. The device protocol library stores proprietary protocols specific to individual medical devices, allowing the system to translate and standardize data from these devices. Clinical instructions provide predefined rules and workflows for processing and interpreting medical data, ensuring consistency in clinical decision-making. The apparatus further includes a communication interface that facilitates bidirectional data exchange between medical devices and the healthcare information system, enabling real-time monitoring and data logging. This modular approach enhances flexibility, scalability, and reliability in medical device integration, improving patient care and operational efficiency in healthcare settings.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the protocol library is to store and organize imaging protocols into a plurality of protocol folders according to protocol type, each protocol folder saving protocol definition information including technical settings and clinical instructions.
This invention relates to a medical imaging system that organizes and manages imaging protocols. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently storing and retrieving imaging protocols, which are essential for consistent and accurate medical imaging procedures. The system includes a protocol library that categorizes protocols into multiple folders based on protocol type, such as modality (e.g., MRI, CT, X-ray) or clinical application (e.g., cardiac, neurological). Each folder contains protocol definition information, including technical settings (e.g., scan parameters, exposure levels) and clinical instructions (e.g., patient positioning, contrast agent usage). This structured organization allows healthcare professionals to quickly access and apply the correct protocols, reducing setup time and minimizing errors. The system may also include a user interface for creating, modifying, and retrieving protocols, ensuring that imaging procedures adhere to standardized guidelines. The invention improves workflow efficiency in radiology departments by streamlining protocol management and enhancing consistency across imaging studies.
8. A computer-implemented method for pulling imaging protocol data to an imaging protocol manager, the method comprising: pulling a first imaging protocol from a first imaging device to the imaging protocol manager; evaluating the first imaging protocol in comparison to a second imaging protocol stored in a protocol library at the imaging protocol manager to identify the first imaging protocol as at least one of a matching protocol, a new protocol, or a deviation with respect to the second imaging protocol, the deviation to be identified when the first imaging protocol is a partial match to the second imaging protocol; when the deviation is identified, determining whether the deviation is to be remediated based on at least one of a rule or a guideline; when the deviation is to be remediated, remediating the deviation by at least one of: a) replacing the first imaging protocol with the second imaging protocol; b) replacing the second imaging protocol with the first imaging protocol; or c) storing the first imaging protocol as a version of the second imaging protocol; and when the first imaging protocol is identified as a new protocol, triggering storage of the first imaging protocol in the protocol library.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for managing imaging protocols in medical imaging systems. The problem addressed is the inconsistency and inefficiency in maintaining standardized imaging protocols across multiple imaging devices, which can lead to errors, redundant work, and non-compliance with clinical guidelines. The method involves pulling an imaging protocol from a first imaging device to an imaging protocol manager. The pulled protocol is then compared to a second protocol stored in a protocol library at the manager. The comparison determines whether the first protocol is a match, a new protocol, or a deviation (a partial match) from the second protocol. If a deviation is detected, the system evaluates whether remediation is necessary based on predefined rules or guidelines. If remediation is required, the system can either replace the first protocol with the second, replace the second with the first, or store the first as a version of the second. If the first protocol is identified as entirely new, it is automatically stored in the protocol library. This ensures protocol consistency, reduces manual intervention, and improves compliance with clinical standards.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the deviation is identified based on a checksum comparison between a file for the first imaging protocol and a file for the second imaging protocol.
This invention relates to medical imaging systems, specifically methods for detecting deviations between imaging protocols. The problem addressed is ensuring consistency in imaging procedures, where deviations from intended protocols can lead to diagnostic errors or inefficiencies. The invention provides a method to identify such deviations by comparing files associated with different imaging protocols. The method involves analyzing files corresponding to a first imaging protocol and a second imaging protocol. A checksum comparison is performed between these files to detect discrepancies. Checksums are used to verify data integrity by generating a unique value representing the file's contents. If the checksums differ, it indicates a deviation between the protocols, which may include variations in imaging parameters, patient positioning, or other procedural steps. This comparison helps ensure that imaging protocols are followed correctly, reducing errors and improving diagnostic accuracy. The method may also include additional steps such as generating alerts or notifications when deviations are detected, allowing for real-time corrections. By automating the detection process, the invention enhances workflow efficiency and consistency in medical imaging environments. The checksum-based approach provides a reliable and efficient way to verify protocol adherence without manual review.
10. The method of claim 8 , wherein the pulling the first imaging protocol from the first imaging device to the imaging protocol manager is facilitated by a cloud agent, wherein the cloud agent is at least one of integrated with the first imaging device or implemented with a back-office network in communication between the imaging protocol manager and the first imaging device.
This invention relates to medical imaging systems, specifically methods for managing imaging protocols across multiple imaging devices. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and inconsistency in protocol management when imaging devices operate independently, leading to errors, delays, and variability in diagnostic imaging procedures. The method involves a cloud-based system for centralizing and distributing imaging protocols. A cloud agent, either integrated into an imaging device or deployed within a back-office network, facilitates communication between the imaging device and an imaging protocol manager. The cloud agent retrieves a first imaging protocol from a first imaging device and transfers it to the imaging protocol manager, which standardizes and stores the protocol. This ensures that protocols are consistently applied across different imaging devices, improving workflow efficiency and diagnostic accuracy. The system supports bidirectional communication, allowing protocols to be updated centrally and pushed to imaging devices as needed. The cloud agent may also handle authentication, encryption, and data validation to ensure secure and reliable protocol management. This approach reduces manual intervention, minimizes errors, and enables real-time protocol adjustments, enhancing overall imaging system performance.
11. The method of claim 8 , wherein the first imaging protocol is to be pulled from the first imaging device including technical settings and clinical instructions and stored at the imaging protocol manager in the same format as the first imaging protocol is found on the first imaging device.
This invention relates to medical imaging systems, specifically managing imaging protocols across multiple imaging devices. The problem addressed is the inconsistency and inefficiency in protocol management, where imaging protocols—including technical settings and clinical instructions—are often stored in different formats across devices, leading to errors and wasted time. The invention provides a method for standardizing and centralizing imaging protocols. A first imaging protocol is retrieved from a first imaging device, including its technical settings (e.g., scan parameters) and clinical instructions (e.g., patient positioning). The protocol is then stored in an imaging protocol manager in the same format as it exists on the original device, ensuring no data loss or reformatting. This allows the protocol to be easily accessed, modified, and deployed to other imaging devices without compatibility issues. The method ensures that protocols remain consistent across different devices, reducing setup errors and improving workflow efficiency. The system may also include additional features, such as protocol validation, version control, and automated deployment to multiple devices. The goal is to streamline protocol management in radiology departments, ensuring standardized, error-free imaging procedures.
12. The method of claim 8 , further including: holding the first imaging protocol in an orchestration bucket staging area for the evaluating; and storing the first imaging protocol according to version in a versioned bucket.
This invention relates to medical imaging systems, specifically methods for managing and evaluating imaging protocols. The problem addressed is the need for efficient storage, version control, and evaluation of imaging protocols in a scalable and organized manner. The method involves holding an imaging protocol in a temporary staging area for evaluation before storing it in a versioned storage system. The staging area, referred to as an orchestration bucket, allows for preliminary assessment or processing of the protocol before final storage. The versioned bucket organizes protocols by version, ensuring traceability and enabling retrieval of specific versions as needed. This approach improves workflow efficiency by separating evaluation and storage processes, reducing errors and ensuring that only validated protocols are permanently stored. The system supports scalability by dynamically managing protocol versions and maintaining a clear history of changes. This method is particularly useful in healthcare environments where imaging protocols must be carefully managed to ensure consistency and accuracy in diagnostic imaging procedures.
13. A cloud agent apparatus comprising: memory to store instructions; and at least one processor to execute the instructions to implement at least: a registration application programming interface to register an imaging device with an imaging protocol manager; a command application programming interface to communicate with the imaging protocol manager to receive a command to pull a first imaging protocol from the imaging device; and a file transfer kit to facilitate transfer of the first imaging protocol via a pull service from the imaging device to the imaging protocol manager, wherein the first imaging protocol is sent to the imaging device to be evaluated in comparison to a second imaging protocol stored in a protocol library at the imaging protocol manager to identify the first imaging protocol as at least one of a matching protocol, a new protocol, or a deviation with respect to the second imaging protocol, the deviation to be identified when the first imaging protocol is a partial match to the second imaging protocol, wherein when the deviation is identified, the deviation is to be analyzed based on at least one of a rule or a guideline to determine whether the deviation is to be remediated, and wherein, when the deviation is to be remediated, the deviation is to be remediated by at least one of: a) replacing the first imaging protocol with the second imaging protocol; b) replacing the second imaging protocol with the first imaging protocol; or c) storing the first imaging protocol as a version of the second imaging protocol.
The cloud agent apparatus is designed for managing and comparing imaging protocols in a cloud-based system. The apparatus includes memory and at least one processor to execute instructions for registering an imaging device with an imaging protocol manager, communicating commands to retrieve imaging protocols from the device, and facilitating the transfer of these protocols to the manager. The system compares a first imaging protocol from the device against a second protocol stored in a protocol library to determine if they match, if the first protocol is new, or if there is a deviation (partial match). When a deviation is detected, it is analyzed using predefined rules or guidelines to decide if remediation is needed. If remediation is required, the system can either replace the first protocol with the second, replace the second with the first, or store the first as a version of the second. This ensures protocol consistency and compliance across imaging devices. The apparatus automates protocol management, reducing manual intervention and improving accuracy in medical imaging workflows.
14. The cloud agent apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the cloud agent apparatus is integrated with the imaging device.
The invention relates to a cloud agent apparatus designed to enhance imaging device functionality by integrating directly with the imaging device. The apparatus facilitates secure and efficient data processing, storage, and transmission between the imaging device and a cloud-based system. The integration allows the imaging device to offload computational tasks, such as image analysis, storage management, and cloud synchronization, to the cloud agent apparatus. This reduces the processing burden on the imaging device itself, improving performance and reliability. The cloud agent apparatus also ensures secure data transmission by implementing encryption protocols and authentication mechanisms, protecting sensitive information during transfer. Additionally, the apparatus may include features for real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics, and firmware updates, enabling proactive maintenance and optimization of the imaging device. By integrating the cloud agent apparatus with the imaging device, the system provides a seamless, scalable solution for managing imaging workflows in cloud-based environments. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring high-performance imaging, such as medical imaging, surveillance, or industrial inspection, where data processing demands are significant. The integration ensures that the imaging device operates efficiently while leveraging cloud resources for enhanced functionality and security.
15. The cloud agent apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the cloud agent apparatus is implemented with a back-office network in communication between the imaging protocol manager and the imaging device.
The invention relates to a cloud-based imaging system designed to improve communication and control between imaging devices and back-office networks. The system addresses inefficiencies in traditional imaging workflows, where direct communication between imaging devices and back-office systems can be slow, unreliable, or require extensive manual intervention. The cloud agent apparatus acts as an intermediary, facilitating seamless data exchange and protocol management between imaging devices (such as medical imaging systems) and back-office networks. This apparatus ensures that imaging protocols are properly configured, executed, and monitored, reducing errors and improving workflow efficiency. The back-office network, which communicates with both the imaging protocol manager and the imaging device, enables centralized control and data processing. This setup allows for real-time adjustments, automated protocol updates, and enhanced data security, making the imaging process more efficient and reliable. The system is particularly useful in healthcare environments where accurate and timely imaging data is critical for diagnosis and treatment.
16. A computer-implemented method comprising: registering, via a cloud agent, an imaging device with an imaging protocol manager; communicating, via the cloud agent, with the imaging protocol manager to receive a command to pull a first imaging protocol from the imaging device; and facilitating, via the cloud agent, transfer of the first imaging protocol using a pull service from the imaging device to the imaging protocol manager, wherein the first imaging protocol is sent to the imaging device via the cloud agent to be evaluated in comparison to a second imaging protocol stored in a protocol library at the imaging protocol manager to identify the first imaging protocol as at least one of a matching protocol, a new protocol, or a deviation with respect to the second imaging protocol, the deviation to be identified when the first imaging protocol is a partial match to the second imaging protocol, wherein when the deviation is identified, the deviation is to be analyzed based on at least one of a rule or a guideline to determine whether the deviation is to be remediated, and wherein, when the deviation is to be remediated, the deviation is to be remediated by at least one of: a) replacing the first imaging protocol with the second imaging protocol; b) replacing the second imaging protocol with the first imaging protocol; or c) storing the first imaging protocol as a version of the second imaging protocol.
This invention relates to a cloud-based system for managing and comparing imaging protocols used in medical imaging devices. The system addresses the challenge of ensuring consistency and accuracy in imaging protocols across different devices by automating protocol validation and remediation. A cloud agent registers an imaging device with an imaging protocol manager, enabling bidirectional communication. The manager can request a protocol from the device using a pull service, transferring the protocol to the manager for evaluation. The system compares the retrieved protocol (first protocol) against a stored protocol (second protocol) in a protocol library to determine if it is a match, a new protocol, or a deviation. If a deviation is detected, the system analyzes it against predefined rules or guidelines to decide if remediation is needed. Remediation options include replacing the first protocol with the second, replacing the second with the first, or storing the first as a version of the second. This ensures protocol consistency and reduces manual intervention in protocol management.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the cloud agent is integrated with the imaging device.
A system and method for cloud-based image processing involves an imaging device, such as a camera or scanner, that captures images and transmits them to a cloud-based processing system. The cloud-based system analyzes the images using machine learning algorithms to detect and classify objects, text, or other features. The system then generates metadata or processed data based on the analysis, which can be stored in a cloud database or transmitted back to the imaging device or another connected device. The cloud agent, which is a software component running on the cloud-based system, is integrated directly with the imaging device, allowing for seamless communication and processing. This integration ensures low-latency data transfer and efficient processing, reducing the need for local computational resources on the imaging device. The system may also include user interfaces for configuring the imaging device, selecting processing parameters, or viewing the processed data. The method improves the accuracy and efficiency of image analysis by leveraging cloud-based computational resources and advanced machine learning techniques.
18. The method of claim 16 , wherein the cloud agent is implemented with a back-office network in communication between the imaging protocol manager and the imaging device.
This invention relates to a system for managing imaging protocols in a medical imaging environment. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication between imaging devices and a central protocol management system, particularly in distributed or cloud-based environments. The system includes a cloud agent that acts as an intermediary between an imaging protocol manager and an imaging device. The cloud agent is implemented within a back-office network, ensuring secure and reliable data exchange. The imaging protocol manager is responsible for storing, updating, and distributing imaging protocols to various imaging devices, such as MRI, CT, or X-ray machines. These protocols define the parameters and settings for capturing medical images, ensuring consistency and quality across different devices and facilities. The imaging device executes the received protocols to perform imaging scans according to the specified parameters. The cloud agent facilitates this communication by relaying protocol data between the manager and the device, handling authentication, encryption, and data validation to maintain security and integrity. This setup allows for centralized control of imaging protocols while accommodating distributed imaging devices, improving workflow efficiency and reducing errors. The back-office network provides a secure infrastructure for the cloud agent, ensuring that protocol data is transmitted and stored in compliance with healthcare regulations. This approach enhances scalability, as new imaging devices can be easily integrated into the system without requiring direct connections to the protocol manager. The system also supports real-time updates, allowing protocols to be modified and deployed dynamically as clinical needs change.
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November 12, 2019
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